Rotating Transformer Electrical Isolation for Actuation Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
In rotating electrical machines, the cooling and maintenance of moving contacts, such as ring and commutator assemblies, are challenging due to limited lifespan and risks like leaks, and placing control converters in mobile domains leads to accelerated deterioration from vibrations and high temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A rotating transformer electrically isolates the electric machine from its source or load through magnetic coupling, replacing moving contacts and allowing remote operation of the transformer and electric motor, thus simplifying power conversion and avoiding the need for cooling in high-temperature zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If moving contacts such as ring and commutator assemblies are used to connect the electric machine and control converter, then electrical connection is achieved, but the lifespan is limited and maintenance is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical moving contact system (ring and commutator assemblies) with a magnetic coupling system using a rotating transformer. The transformer transfers electrical energy between stationary and rotating components through magnetic fields without physical contact, eliminating wear and extending lifespan while removing maintenance requirements for the electrical connection interface.
2Ease of operation
If control converter is installed in the mobile domain to avoid power transmission, then power control is integrated, but the electronics deteriorate accelerated due to vibrations, centrifugal force and high temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a stationary domain containing the control converter and a rotating domain containing the electric machine, connected through a rotating transformer. This separation allows the control electronics to remain in the stationary, cooler, and more stable environment while still achieving integrated power control through the magnetic coupling interface.
3Power
If rotating contacts are used to connect electric machine and control converter, then electrical energy transmission is achieved, but cooling of contacts becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the mechanical contact system that requires cooling by using a rotating transformer with magnetic coupling. The stationary-winding transformer design concentrates heat generation in the stationary stator windings, which are easier to cool, while the rotor side operates without direct electrical contacts that would require complex cooling arrangements in the rotating domain.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution extends the lifespan of electrical actuation systems, reduces maintenance needs, and allows for efficient control of torque and speed across the entire operational range without the limitations of moving contacts, while maintaining reliability and reducing the risk of leaks and electronic deterioration.
Implementation Method 1
The transformer electrically isolates the electric machine from an alternating electric source or load according to its motor or generator mode of operation through magnetic coupling
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an actuation and/or generation device including an AC rotary electrical machine (130) having an electrical connection (122, 124) for transferring power to the terminals of the stator of the machine, characterized in that the connection includes a transformer (122).